David Gaskell, the youngest debutant in the history of Manchester United, has died aged 84.
The goalkeeper made an unlikely debut in the Charity Shield in 1956 at just 16 years and 19 days in a remarkable turn of events.
Starting ‘keeper Ray Wood suffered an injury in the clash with Manchester City and the teenager, who was only at the game to watch, was handed some kit and called into action with a teammate’s boots.
As Manchester United describe: ‘Gaskell went on to turn in a man-of-the-match performance, keeping a clean sheet as the Reds won 1-0.’
The stopper went on to play for the club until 1968, winning two First Division titles and an FA Cup. He moved on to play for Wigan and Wrexham.
A statement from the Red Devils read: ‘We are deeply saddened by the passing of David Gaskell, our youngest-ever debutant and former goalkeeper. We extend our condolences to his family and friends.’
A tribute from the Gaskell family stated: ‘Dave was devoted to his beloved wife, Barbara, with whom he shared 68 wonderful years of marriage. He was a proud father to his three daughters, Michelle, Lesley, and Nicola, and a loving grandfather to Joel, Emily, Eleanor, Ted, and Edith. His family was his greatest joy, and his legacy will live on through them.
‘In these past few weeks of illness, Dave was surrounded by the love and support of the many friends he made throughout his life—friends who, like so many in Wrexham and beyond, will miss him dearly.
‘Dave Gaskell leaves behind not just a remarkable sporting legacy, but an enduring example of kindness, dedication, and humility. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.’
Manchester United’s description of Gaskell’s debut makes it clear how incredible it would have been for the youngster.
The club wrote: ‘Having finished his daytime duties as a part of United’s groundstaff, Gaskell – who was the club’s fifth choice goalkeeper, aged just 16 years and 19 days, and less than four months into his Reds career – went along to watch the Reds in action against Manchester City in the Charity Shield that evening.
‘An early injury to starting stopper Ray Wood left United down to 10 men, until coach Bert Whalley grabbed Gaskell from the crowd, pulled together some kit, picked up a spare pair of team-mate Colin Webster’s boots and threw the teenager back onto the field in Wood’s stead.’